Dáil Éireann Debate, Thursday - 20 April 2023
334. Deputy Bernard J. Durkan asked the Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine the extent to which large-scale beef seed feedlots are likely to be affected by emission issues in the same way as beef producers dependent largely on grassland; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [18884/23]
View answerIt is important to clarify that there is no legal definition of a feedlot herd. The Department defines certain herds as Controlled Finishing Units (CFUs) in the context of the Bovine TB Eradication Programme. This definition is unique to that programme and does not necessarily mirror the use of the term "feedlot" by the public and/or other institutions. CFUs are subject to enhanced biosecurity measures as part of the TB Programme and can only sell direct to slaughter.
The Department’s remit in relation to controlled finishing units is to ensure that they operate in compliance with the EU's animal health and animal welfare standards, and with the biosecurity arrangements noted above.
Ireland is a unique agricultural country with a largely extensive livestock sector utilising an excellent and sustainable grass-based system. Our shared Food Vision 2030 strategy strongly advocates for sustainability as we develop our agrifood sector to meet the highest standards of sustainability across all three pillars – economic, environmental, and social. The strategy recognises the challenges ahead, while proposing solutions and charting a pathway towards sustainability.
The agriculture sector has been designated a specific target within the Climate Action Plan of reducing emissions by 25% by 2030. My Department is leading on various measures to assist all farming enterprises in contributing to the achievement of this overall sectoral emissions target.
